EMG 81-7XH 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG4345
Description
EMG 81-7XH 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome
The EMG 81-7XH is a high-output active humbucker engineered specifically for extended-range 7-string guitars, capturing tight, articulate low-end response with aggressive midrange definition ideal for layering in dense mixes. This pickup excels in modern metal and progressive productions where individual string clarity and sustain translate through the mix without losing definition. The brushed black chrome finish maintains a clean instrument appearance while delivering EMG's proven active electronics reliability session after session.
Active Electronics & Power
Powered by a standard 9V battery with an exceptional 3000-hour lifespan, this active system operates at 80 µA current draw with a 10 kΩ output impedance, ensuring stable signal transfer and minimal noise floor across extended cable runs during recording and live tracking. The solderless wiring configuration simplifies installation and reduces the risk of cold solder joints in the instrument cavity, critical for maintaining signal integrity and consistency across multiple takes.
Design & Specifications
Ceramic magnets paired with close-aperture coils deliver the signature EMG 81 character—punchy attack and compressed sustain that lock into tight rhythm sections and cut through heavy production without muddiness. The pickup's 38 × 89 mm footprint accommodates standard 7-string humbucker cavities, and the 2K DC resistance provides the high-output signature EMG players expect while maintaining a clean noise floor for pristine studio recordings.
Key Features
- Active 7-string humbucker design
- Ceramic magnets with close-aperture coils
- 9V battery power with 3000-hour battery life
- 80 µA current draw
- 10 kΩ output impedance
- 2K DC resistance
- 38 × 89 mm housing dimensions
- Solderless wiring system
- Brushed black chrome finish
- Traditional humbucker format
The 81-7XH combines proven active-pickup aggression with 7-string configuration specificity, capturing articulate, high-output performance that sits solidly in modern extended-range productions and multi-track sessions.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 81-7XH is an active 7-string humbucker engineered for high-output recording in modern metal and progressive genres, offering tight low-end definition and articulate midrange presence that sit well in dense mixes. Producers and engineers tracking extended-range material will value its punchy attack and compressed sustain for both fast lead parts and tight rhythm tones. Its low noise floor and stable active electronics make it a reliable choice for capturing aggressive, articulate performances in the studio.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Metal
- ✓ Progressive
- ✓ Djent
- ✓ Extended Range
Not the best pick for
- – Jazz
- – Blues
- – Country
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this pickup different from passive 7-string humbuckers?
The 81-7XH is an active pickup powered by a 9V battery, which provides higher output, lower noise floor, and more consistent signal across cable runs compared to passive designs. The active circuit also contributes to its signature punchy attack and compressed sustain.
How long does the 9V battery last?
The battery is rated for approximately 3000 hours of operation, which translates to roughly 5–6 months of typical playing time before replacement is needed.
Will this pickup fit my 7-string guitar?
The pickup's 38 × 89 mm footprint is designed to fit standard 7-string humbucker cavities. Verify that your instrument has a standard humbucker routing before purchasing.
Is solderless wiring really easier to install?
Yes—the solderless wiring system eliminates the need for soldering in the instrument cavity, reducing installation time and the risk of cold solder joints that can cause noise or intermittent signal problems.
Is this pickup suited for jazz or blues?
No. The 81-7XH is engineered for metal, progressive, and djent applications where high output, tight low end, and aggressive midrange are priorities. It is not designed for jazz or blues playing styles.
Do I pay sales tax on this order?
We collect sales tax only on orders shipped to California. Orders shipped to any other US state are charged $0 sales tax at checkout when you buy direct from our website. On this item that is roughly $10 less out the door than the same listed price at a national retailer or on a marketplace. Marketplaces such as eBay, Reverb and Amazon collect sales tax in nearly every state as marketplace facilitators no matter who the seller is, so the same item at the same price costs less bought direct. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included. Some states ask buyers to self-report use tax on out-of-state purchases.
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